"Deeply shameful": BJP's Jairam Thakur slams CM Sukhu over 'wild chicken' controversy

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], December 14 (ANI): Referring to the recent 'wild chicken' controversy, BJP leader Jairam Thakur on Saturday slammed Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu and said that the CM called the chicken "wild" at dinner but labelled it "country chicken" the very next morning.
"Such behaviour from the head of the state, who holds a constitutional position and serves as the guardian of the state, is deeply shameful," Thakur was quoted in a press release.
He pointed out that on Friday night in Kupvi, the CM was seen in a live telecast discussing the "wild chicken" being served at the event, questioning, "who prepares wild chicken?" while asking his ministers and colleagues to relish it.
Jairam Thakur further criticized CM Sukhu for failing to ensure justice, pointing out that all species of wild chicken in Himachal Pradesh are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 and its 2022 Amendment. These species fall under Schedule I, which lists highly endangered species whose hunting or killing is a punishable offence.
Thakur argued that the CM should have ordered an immediate inquiry and sent a strong message about wildlife conservation. However, by dismissing the issue, the CM undermined the state's commitment to protecting endangered species.
Earlier, CM Sukhu on Saturday slammed the opposition BJP, accusing them of highlighting bizarre issues due to their inability to address real concerns.
Refuting the allegations, CM Sukhu clarified that the chicken served at the public event in a remote area of Kufri was not a 'wild chicken', but rather a 'desi chicken,' which is part of the region's tribal culture.
Speaking to reporters, Sukhu said, "What should I say about something that did not happen? It was not a wild chicken; it is part of their tribal culture. When I said I don't consume non-veg food, they clarified that it wasn't a store-bought chicken, but country chicken from their village. We didn't go there to eat; we went to listen to people's problems. BJP has no real issues, so they are picking up bizarre issues like this. (ANI)